Many shoppers who logged into the Marks and Spencer website were surprised recently when the website began sharing user data. Some users thought it was an attack from one of the many hacking groups, but that is not the case.

This forced the company to shut the website down for a few hours as its team attempted to find out what was the cause of the problem and how to fix it.

According to a statement from Marks and Spencer, this issue began due to technical difficulties on its part, so users should not worry themselves with the thought of being hacked.

"Due to a technical issue we temporarily suspended our website yesterday evening. This allowed us to thoroughly investigate and resolve the issue and quickly restore service for our customers. We apologise to customers for any inconvenience caused," said a spokesperson for the company.

Several customers took to social media websites such as Facebook and Twitter where they complained about Marks and Spencer sending them other customer information, which includes their names, phone numbers, card details and delivery addresses.

In a statement to the Register, Marks and Spencer claimed that no substantial customer information was revealed, but some shoppers are not buying it and might go as far as to seek an investigation into the matter.

One customer stated on the company's Facebook page that she saw another customer's credit card details and other personal information.

"They say that customers bank details were not compromised however I could see the lady's card details IN FULL!! Luckily I am an honest member of the public but what if it had been someone else. What could happen to that info if in the wrong hands?"

Marks and Spencer could be on the verge of being hit with a huge lawsuit should if it can be proven that customers were able to view personal details of other customers. It all boils down to whether or not folks are willing to go through with it or not.

Photo: Matt Brown | Flickr